August is National Immunization Awareness Month. This month-long observance highlights how important immunizations (or vaccines) are in protecting everyone from preventable diseases and illnesses. They play a vital role in saving lives, reducing disease, and creating a healthy community.
How Immunizations Work
Immunizations are safe and effective in helping the body learn how to defend itself from disease without the dangers of getting an actual infection. They work by imitating an infection to engage the body’s natural defenses.
By doing so, they can prevent or minimize the worst effects of illness. They can also help reduce the spread to those at highest risk.
Immunizations Save Lives
Before immunizations became widely available, the average life expectancy in the U.S. was just 43.7 years. Illnesses and diseases such as the flu, tuberculosis, pertussis, measles and diphtheria were among the leading causes of death for children and young adults. For example:
- Before the introduction of the measles vaccine in 1963, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 3-4 million people contracted measles in the U.S., with an estimated 400-500 deaths per year.
- Pertussis or “whooping cough” vaccines became available in the 1940s. Before then, up to 200,000 children got sick each year in the U.S. and about 9,000 died as a result of the illness.
In more recent times we’ve continued to see advancement with immunizations. From the COVID-19 vaccine, to the HPV vaccine that prevents six types of cancers, to RSV immunizations that protects infants and older adults, these immunizations have prevented illness and disease and have saved millions of lives.
Life expectancy today in the U.S. is an estimated 79.4 years. Immunizations, along with other public health improvements like antibiotics and improved sanitation, deserve much of the credit for Americans living longer, healthier lives.
Make Sure You’re Protected
While everyone should stay up to date on recommended vaccines, we highlight the importance of vaccinations for people who can be especially vulnerable to dangerous, preventable diseases. This includes:
- Pregnant women
- Young children
- Teenagers
- Older adults
- People who are immunocompromised or at increased risk of illness
Make sure to discuss with your healthcare provider what vaccines are best for you and your family.
It’s time well-spent.
You can learn more about vaccines, and how to access vaccines at vdh.virginia.gov/immunization.
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